Police search for violent robbery suspect

Police are warning residents after a female victim reported a violent robbery in Newport Beach near UC Irvine.

The victim reported being struck in the face as she exited her vehicle about 10:19 p.m. Monday, according to Newport Beach police.

She had just parked inside a parking garage in the 7100 block of Residencia when the attack happened, according to police.

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She described someone grabbing her and pulling her toward the open driver's side door, police said. At that point, police said, she was struck in the face with an unknown object, possibly her assailant's fist.

The suspect then grabbed a purse from the victim's shoulder and fled on foot out of the garage, police said.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male about 5 feet, 10 inches tall, wearing a long-sleeved black shirt, black pants, a black beanie and white shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Brad Miller at (949) 644-3762.